Mother'S Applesauce Cake
A moist and flavorful applesauce cake featuring warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. This sweet treat is perfect for fall gatherings or everyday snacking, offering a tender crumb and a delightful apple aroma that complements a cup of tea or coffee. Ideal for those who love classic, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream Crisco, brown sugar, and egg together until well combined.
- Dissolve baking soda in the thick applesauce and add to the mixture.
- Sift flour, cinnamon, and cloves with part of the flour and add to the mixture.
- Mix until just combined, then add enough remaining flour to form a fairly stiff batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the Crisco with unsalted butter. If you prefer a sweeter cake, add an extra 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Experiment with spices by adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist. Ensure your applesauce is thick, as this will enhance the cake's moisture and texture. If you want to add a crunch, incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This applesauce cake is delightful served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. It also goes well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve alongside Granny's Buttermilk Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. To reheat, wrap individual slices in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This keeps the cake moist while restoring its fresh-baked flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Applesauce Cake contains roughly 225 calories, with 2g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade applesauce instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce often has a fresher flavor and can be customized to your taste. Just make sure it's thick enough, as the consistency will affect the cake's texture. If your homemade version is too runny, you might want to reduce it on the stove to thicken it up before adding it to the recipe.
What can I substitute for Crisco?
You can substitute Crisco with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Both alternatives will yield a delicious cake while adding a bit of richness. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using applesauce or Greek yogurt to replace some of the fat, but this may change the texture slightly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this applesauce cake gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for better texture. You may need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).